Bercow could face second bullying inquiry as Leadsom plans to look into historical abuse
PEERS and MPS accused of historical abuse will face investigation in a move that could lead to John Bercow facing a second inquiry over bullying claims.
Andrea Leadsom, the Leader of the Commons, is also seeking to “democratise” the Commons Commission, which deals with staff complaints, putting the Speaker’s role as chairman in jeopardy.
Mrs Leadsom told The Daily Telegraph: “In the wake of the increasing number of allegations ... we’ve got to hold ourselves to account and take every step possible to ensure that we are the solution not the problem.”
In a thinly-veiled attack on Mr Bercow, who once allegedly described her as “that stupid woman”, she said: “We need to change the power dynamic here, culture of deference and frankly in some cases abuse of power. The vast majority of my colleagues are decent, honourable people who do a good job but we are being badly let down by a minority and that has to stop.”
Declaring the crackdown “my absolute mission”, she confirmed that in the most serious cases, MPS and Lords could face deselection.
It comes after a report by Dame Laura Cox found that bullying and harassment had been “tolerated and concealed” and criticised a culture of “silence” in the Commons in response to widespread cases of inappropriate touching, lewd language and intimidating behaviour.
Mr Bercow has faced calls to resign after he was accused of bullying by members of his own staff. He denies the allegations.
The inquiry will investigate historical allegations made by staff employed directly by MPS and peers – including secretaries and researchers.
Mr Bercow has “house” staff as well as directly employing parliamentary staff as the MP for Buckingham. Mrs Leadsom added: “There is more distressing evidence to come and I think it’s vital to get to the bottom of it all in order to give people closure wherever possible.”
She also called for “a big democratisation” of the Mp-only membership of the House Commission, of which the Speaker is the default chairman.